Dental Therapist

Tasks & duties

Dental therapists may do some or all of the following:

• examine the oral condition of the mouth and teeth, and prepare a treatment plan
• restore teeth and do routine dental treatment and prevention work, such as applying prevention coating to teeth
• extract first teeth with a local anaesthetic
• advise patients on how to keep teeth and gums clean and prevent oral diseases
• promote oral health and hygiene in the community
• keep records of treatment
• refer people who require specialist dental treatment to a dentist or dental specialist and discuss their treatment with them
• take x-rays of mouths

Skills & knowledge

Dental therapists need to have:

• knowledge of the structure and function of the teeth, jaw and mouth
• knowledge of injuries and diseases of the mouth
• understanding of human health and development
• knowledge of oral health care methods
• skill in assessing and diagnosing dental problems
• technical skills for providing dental treatment
• knowledge of hygiene and sterilisation procedures
• problem-solving skills
• decision-making skills
• good people and communication skills for dealing with clients and their parents

Entry requirements

A Bachelor of Oral Health is needed to become a dental therapist.

Secondary education

A tertiary entrance qualification is required to enter dental therapy training. Sixth Form Certificate or NCEA-equivalent biology is required, and other useful subjects include chemistry and English.

Training on the job

Dental therapists do training and development courses to keep up to date with new technology and information. Supervisory courses may vary between health boards. Dental therapists will be required to participate in on-the-job training to remain registered.

For dental therapists who have taken time off, there are refresher courses offered at the University of Otago. The Waitemata District Health Board also offers retraining.

Registration

Dental therapists need to be registered and hold an Annual Practising Certificate.

Useful experience

Experience as a dental assistant or dental technician may be useful.

Related courses

Dental Hygiene and Therapy

For more information, please refer to Career Services.